Orange French Toast

My family loves breakfast.  Pancakes are my kids’ favorite for breakfast, although my daughter recently began making omelets for herself.  If he could have anything, Les would probably choose Eggs Benedict.  Me?  I would choose French toast every time.  And, Orange French Toast is my particular favorite. 

As a kid, I didn’t like syrup, so French toast with a light dusting of powdered sugar was perfect for me.  My mom just used whatever bread we had on hand, but I loved French toast anyway.  Now, when I make it for my family, I use thicker bread so it can soak up more of the egg mixture.  I also add a hint of orange, and I love the light citrus flavor in this custardy French toast.

Orange French Toast
1 loaf French Bread, slightly stale
1 cup milk (I use whole milk if I have it)
3 eggs
¼ cup orange juice
1 teaspoon shredded orange zest
1 teaspoon vanilla
pinch salt
pinch freshly grated nutmeg

Slice the loaf of French bread crosswise into 1-inch slice.  In a pie plate or shallow bowl, beat eggs, milk, orange juice, orange zest, vanilla, salt and nutmeg until combined. 

Preheat an electric griddle or heat a skillet on medium-high heat, and brush the griddle or skillet with vegetable oil.  Dip the bread into the egg mixture letting the egg mixture soak in, but don’t let the bread get so wet it falls apart.  Gently place the bread on the hot griddle or skillet and cook until lightly browned and cooked through, flipping once.  Makes about 10 slices.